The alleged misuse of public funds, conspiracy to commit murder, and corruption charges have tarnished Sara Dutertes political career, leading to her impeachment by the lower house of the Philippines and leaving her fate pending in a Senate trial.

The Charges
Vice President Duterte was charged with accusations of violation of the constitution, betrayal of public trust, graft and corruption, and other high crimes, according to the House in a 44-page document, which included accusations of conspiring murders of Ferdinand Marcos, the President of Philippines, first lady Liza Marcos, and the speaker of the house Martin Romualadez.

In December, three complaints were filed against her for misusing pesos in a secretive fund and covering up any questions raised. The fourth complaint of her violating the constitution and other high crimes led to the impeachment vote from 215 lawmakers.

The Collective Impeachment
A small student rally was led outside the House of Representatives where a student protester said, defining the decision as a major victory, “I feel so happy because this proves the power of collective action. We know there are still many things to accomplish to fully hold Sara Duterte accountable, said Darlene Cerico (Student Protestor).

Romualadez stated that the motion has been filed by over one-third of the House of Representatives, totaling 215 members. As a result, it is now approved, affirming a collective motion of agreement against the vice president.

Duterte-Marcos Feud
Sara Duterte and President Ferdinand Marcos, the leaders of the current Philippine political parties, have been embroiled in a public feud for several months. In 2022, Duterte chose to step back to support Marcos in the elections and ran for the vice presidency. However, their relationship took a turn for the worse following a speech last November in which Duterte threatened to kill Marcos.

Later, she denied threatening the President. One of the four complaints included was the threat against the President in the impeachment of Sara Duterte.

The Senate
This impeachment will go to a senate of 24 members, where two-thirds votes will decide her impeachment for her to be removed from the position. Sara will remain Vice president until the trial results however, the date for the trial has not been finalized yet.

Election 2028
The House vote will come before the campaigning for the election of 2028. The coming trial will decide whos part is stronger in the coming election.
“If (Marcos) is committed to this one, to the impeachment process… I think getting the required number of Senate votes. Said Dennis Coronacion, chairman of the political science department at the University of Santo Tomas.

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